Black Spot on a Dogs Tongue: What does it Mean?

Attention, all dog lovers!

Have you ever been giving your furry friend a belly rub, and as they’re panting away in pure bliss, you spot a peculiar black spot on their tongue? Does this give you a pause? Could it be a sign of something serious? Or is it just another quirk that makes your canine companion all the more unique?

Let’s dive into the world of dogs with black tongues and explore this canine phenomenon.

The Puzzling Phenomenon: Dogs with Black Tongues

Not unlike a detective novel, the story of dogs with black tongues is one filled with intrigue and speculation. It’s no secret that different breeds of dogs have different physical traits – from the curly tails of Pugs to the towering heights of Great Danes.

But when it comes to tongues, things get a tad more interesting.

What’s In a Tongue?

Dogs’ tongues are fascinating organs, don’t you think? These versatile instruments serve multiple purposes – from aiding in digestion to being an efficient cooling system and, not to mention, the source of those slobbery kisses we all have a love-hate relationship with. But, have you ever wondered why some dogs have black spots on their tongues?

The Causes: Why Does Your Dog Have a Black Spot on Its Tongue?

Pigment Peculiarities

The black spots that appear on dogs’ tongues are usually due to an increase in pigment. It’s somewhat similar to how we humans get freckles or moles. These spots are known as ‘melanocytes,’ which are cells that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and yes, tongues!

• Breed-Specific Traits: In some dog breeds, like the Chow Chow and the Chinese Shar Pei, having a blue-black tongue is a common breed trait. These breeds are born with pink tongues, but they darken as the pup grows.
• Age-Related Changes: For other breeds, black spots on the tongue can appear as they age. These age spots, or lentigines, are harmless, just like the age spots that appear on human skin.
• Health Conditions: While most black spots are harmless, it’s important to remember that certain health conditions can also cause discoloration of the tongue. If you notice sudden changes in your dog’s tongue color, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet.

Reading the Spots

Are the black spots on your dog’s tongue a cause for concern, then? Well, most of the time, these spots are benign. However, if you notice any of the following, it’s best to schedule a visit to the vet:

• New spots appearing suddenly
• Changes in the size, color, or shape of existing spots
• Your dog showing signs of discomfort or pain

Dogs with Black Tongues: Debunking the Myths

In our quest to understand why dogs have black spots on their tongues, we often encounter some persistent myths. Is your dog part Chow because it has a black spot on its tongue? Let’s bust this myth right away: Not every dog with a black tongue or black spots on its tongue is a Chow mix.

Although Chow Chows are famous for their black tongues, they’re not the only breed that can have this trait. Several other breeds can develop black spots on their tongues too, including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians, and many more. So, having a black spot on the tongue doesn’t necessarily mean your dog has Chow genes in their lineage.

A Closer Look at Dog Breeds with Black Tongues

As we’ve mentioned, some dog breeds are more likely to have black tongues. Let’s take a closer look at a couple of these breeds:

Chow Chow: Chow Chows are one of the few breeds that have a completely blue-black tongue. This distinctive trait is one of the breed’s defining characteristics and is even mentioned in breed standards. It’s one of the things that makes a Chow Chow, well, a Chow Chow!

Chinese Shar Pei: Like the Chow Chow, the Chinese Shar Pei also typically sports a blue-black tongue. Interestingly, these are the only two breeds where a solid black tongue is standard.

Miniature Shar-Pei: The Miniature Shar-Pei, a compact version of the Chinese Shar Pei, carries the same distinctive blue-black tongue. The breed originated in China and is known for its loose, wrinkly skin and ‘hippopotamus’ shaped head. With their loyal, independent nature, Miniature Shar-Peis make excellent companions.

Eurasier: Next stop, Germany! That’s where the Eurasier breed was developed in the 1960s. These dogs are a mix of Chow Chow, Wolfspitz, and later, Samoyed. Eurasiers inherited the black tongue trait from their Chow Chow ancestors. With their calm, even-tempered disposition and fluffy coats, Eurasiers are beloved family pets.

Thai Ridgeback: Flying east to Thailand, we find the Thai Ridgeback. This breed is one of the few that can have black spots on their tongue. Known for their agility and muscular build, Thai Ridgebacks are powerful, independent dogs. They have a distinctive line of hair running along their back in the opposite direction, hence the name ‘Ridgeback’.

Phu Quoc Ridgeback: Finally, we hop over to Vietnam, home of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback. This breed is one of the rarest in the world, originating from the island of Phu Quoc. Like their Thai counterparts, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks can also have black spots on their tongues. They are known for their athletic ability, especially their impressive jumping and climbing skills.

Other Breeds: While not as common, several other breeds can have black spots on their tongues. This includes, but is not limited to, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Siberian Huskies.

Black Tongue Spots: When to Seek Veterinary Advice?

While a black spot on your dog’s tongue is usually nothing to lose sleep over, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, right? Especially when it comes to the health and well-being of our furry friends. Here are a few scenarios when you might want to give your vet a ring:

• The black spot has appeared suddenly or is changing in size, shape, or color
• Your dog appears to be in discomfort or is frequently licking or pawing at its mouth
• You notice other symptoms, such as changes in eating habits, energy levels, or unusual behaviors

If your dog’s tongue spots tick any of these boxes, then it’s time for a trip to the vet.

Oral Melanoma in Dogs: Spotting the Signs

While most black spots on a dog’s tongue are harmless, in rare cases, they could be a sign of a more serious condition like oral melanoma. Oral melanoma, you ask? It’s a type of cancer that occurs in the mouth of dogs, and it can indeed present as a dark spot or growth.

Oral melanoma is the most common type of oral cancer in dogs. It’s particularly aggressive and tends to metastasize quickly to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes and lungs. Recognizing the signs of this disease early can be key in getting the best possible outcome for your furry friend.

So, what should you look out for? Here are some tell-tale signs:

• A dark growth or spot in the mouth that wasn’t there before
• Changes in eating or drinking behavior (like difficulty chewing or drooling)
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth or bleeding from the mouth
• Swelling in the face or mouth area

Remember, these signs don’t necessarily mean your dog has oral melanoma. They could indicate other dental or oral issues. But if you notice any of these changes, it’s crucial to consult your vet as soon as possible. They can perform a thorough examination and conduct necessary tests to rule out or confirm a diagnosis of oral melanoma.

The Takeaway: A Spot of Color in a Dog’s Life

In the grand scheme of things, a black spot on your dog’s tongue is just a small quirk that adds to their charm and individuality. It’s a pigment variation, much like the color of their fur or the shape of their tail. So next time you see that black spot, consider it a beauty mark, an endearing part of your dog’s unique look.

But, as always, keeping a vigilant eye on any changes and seeking veterinary advice when something seems off is the best way to ensure your four-legged friend stays in tip-top shape. After all, there’s no such thing as being too careful when it comes to the health and happiness of our furry friends, is there?

In the end, it doesn’t matter if your dog’s tongue is pink, spotted, or completely black. What truly matters is the unconditional love they shower us with, their unbounded energy that brightens our days, and their loyal companionship that makes our lives richer. Now, isn’t that the real beauty of owning a dog?

So, here’s to all the dogs out there – black-tongued, spotted-tongued, pink-tongued, and everything in between. May your days be filled with long walks, bountiful belly rubs, and countless tasty treats!